Tiger Claw
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Event overview
Tiger Claw takes place May 8-9, 2026, in Issaquah, WA, with the Issaquah Community Center listed as the event location. The event offers multiple race options: the Ascent, the 50k (listed as 31 miles with about 8,500 ft of elevation gain), the Big Cat entry (registration for both the Ascent and the 50k), and a new 3-person relay called the Ambush. The course is on Tiger Mountain and features steep climbs and focused downhills on rugged Pacific Northwest trails.
Course formats and key details
The Ascent is a direct climb to the summit of West Tiger 2 via the Cable Line route. It is described as 2.5 miles with 2,500 ft of vertical gain, followed by an untimed 3 mile descent back to the trailhead. The 50k follows multiple loops that runners may complete in chosen order; the full 50k is stated as 31 miles with roughly 8,500 ft of gain. The Double (50 miles) completes the course twice, once in each direction, and is listed with nearly 17,000 ft of vertical gain. The Big Cat registration bundles the Ascent and the 50k into one entry with a reduced price and limited spots.
Relay, aid stations and awards
The Ambush relay uses three teammates who start together, split to run separate ascents, reconvene at the lower aid station, and finish together; team time equals the last member to cross. There are two aid stations, Base Camp and High Camp, offering drinks and basic snacks. Runners must carry at least one water bottle; no single-use cups will be provided, but water pitchers and collapsible cups will be available. Finishers items are listed: Ascent finishers receive a rabbit ice bandana, 50k finishers receive a custom hoodie, and Big Cat finishers receive both. Equal podium prizing is offered for Men, Women, and Non-Binary categories. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
